Well-fitting running shoes are one of your most important investments as a runner because they protect and cushion your feet while absorbing the impact from your exercise. Take your time when you shop for running shoes to ensure a correct fit and keep the following tips in mind so you can run with complete confidence.
Shop at a Running Store
If you are a serious runner or even if you are just starting out, buying the correct pair of running shoes is arguably the most important factor in your continued success. That is why you should shop for your running shoes in a store that caters to runners. The staff will be trained to evaluate your feet and running needs, such as distance or over what terrain and also show you what the best fit is for your feet.
Take a pair of socks with you that you usually wear and shop at the end of the afternoon or day, when your feet are at their largest, to make sure to find the best pair for you. Walk or even run around in the store as long as possible to see how you feet feel in the shoes while in movement.
Correct Fit
The salesperson at a running store will look at how you step and move forward on your feet, which is called pronation. There are running shoes for every sort of gait, from motion-controlled, to stability shoes to cushioned ones. Once you have a couple of pairs picked out to try on, check for the following to ensure a correct fit.
When the running shoes are laced up on your feet, press between your big toe and the end of the shoe. If your toe is pressed up against the shoe, it is too tight, and you need to try at least another half size larger. There should be enough space to press your fingertips down, but if you find your foot moves around inside the shoe, they are too big for you. Try a half size smaller.
If your heel slides in and out easily, you need to find another pair that cushions your heel without squeezing it tightly, and the same goes for the width of your shoe. If your running shoes are too narrow or too wide for you, you could be setting yourself up for an injury. Take the time to find a properly fitting running shoe.
What Not to Do
Unless you know from experience the exact model and size you are looking for, maybe to replace a pair you already have, do not shop for running shoes online. For one thing, nobody else has your feet, so the user reviews, although helpful, will not be able to match the best shoe to your needs.
Another mistake to avoid is to only try on one shoe. People's right and left foot differ in width and pronation to a certain extent, and your running shoes must be comfortable for both feet. You need to try both shoes so that you can walk around the store a bit to make sure they suit you.
Last, but not least, never buy running shoes just because they are so good looking or because a friend of yours loves his pair. If they are the slightest bit uncomfortable or tight, your feet and eventually your running will suffer. After all, a good pair of running shoes is one of your best allies.
Tags: running shoes, your feet, your running, shoe your, your running shoes